Real Madrid star Rodrygo Goes reportedly refused to play in Sunday's El Clasico against Barcelona despite being named in the squad.
The Brazilian winger allegedly told manager Carlo Ancelotti that he didn't have the energy or the right state of mind to feature in the crucial fixture.
Real Madrid ultimately suffered a 4-3 defeat to their fierce rivals at the Estadi de Montjuïc, dealing a significant blow to their La Liga title hopes.
Barcelona took a commanding seven-point lead at the top of La Liga with just three games remaining after the thrilling victory.
Rodrygo Goes has been linked with a Real Madrid exit this summer
PA
Kylian Mbappe scored a hat-trick for Real Madrid, who initially went 2-0 up at the Catalan stadium.
However, Barcelona mounted a remarkable comeback with Eric Garcia, Lamine Yamal and Raphinha, who scored twice, finding the net to secure all three points.
The defeat has likely ended Real Madrid's hopes of claiming the league title this season.
According to Spanish outlet Marca, Rodrygo's absence from the pitch was his own decision rather than tactical.
The 24-year-old reportedly informed Ancelotti during the week that he did not feel he had the energy or the right state of mind to play in the Clasico.
Despite taking part in four training sessions leading up to the match, the Brazilian's feelings weren't "particularly good".
JUST IN: Christian Horner 'on the verge' of Red Bull sack amid civil war with two replacements touted
Ancelotti still included him in the matchday squad, allegedly to protect the player from questions.
When questioned after the match about Rodrygo's absence, Ancelotti offered a diplomatic explanation to the media.
"He recovered, but was not feeling well. Putting him on for 6 or 7 minutes, he was only going to get injured," the Italian coach said.
This came just 24 hours after Ancelotti had declared: "Rodrygo is back and training well. He's available. We don't have many options for the starting eleven, but those who are in the squad can start."
READ MORE: Rugby star left screaming in agony after tackle from trans player resulted in horrifying injury
Rodrygo told Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti he did not want to play El Clasico
PA
Speculation about Rodrygo's future at Real Madrid has intensified following the incident, with reports suggesting he is considering an exit this summer.
Premier League clubs are circling, with Manchester City showing "strong interest" according to reports.
Liverpool and Arsenal are also reportedly keen on acquiring the Brazilian's services.
His compatibility with teammates Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior has been questioned, with sources indicating Real Madrid are open to considering offers for him.
LATEST SPORT NEWS:
Several clubs are interested in Rodrygo this summer
Reuters
Rodrygo has been a key figure for Real Madrid since joining in 2019, making 267 appearances and scoring 68 goals for the club.
This season alone, the Brazilian has featured in 50 matches across all competitions, contributing 13 goals and 10 assists.
During his time at the Bernabeu, Rodrygo has enjoyed considerable success, winning the Champions League twice, LaLiga three times and the Copa del Rey once.
